All common scams

Tech-support pop-ups: "your computer is infected"

A loud warning on your screen, or a call, says your computer has a virus and sends you to a phone number for help.

What it looks like

WARNING: Your computer has been infected with a trojan virus. Do not restart or close this window. Call Windows Support now at +1 (202) 555-0143 and a technician will connect remotely to remove it.

A made-up example. Real messages change the words, the names and the numbers.

The signs to look for

• It says your computer is infected or blocked and tells you not to close or restart it. Real warnings from your own computer do not come with a phone number to call.
• It gives you a number to call. The person who answers is the scammer, whatever name the message uses.
• It asks you to let someone connect to your computer or to install a program. That gives a stranger control of your device and your accounts.

What they usually ask for next

1. Fake tech support often starts with a pop-up or a call saying your device has a virus or a problem.
2. They usually ask you to call a number they give you.
3. They often ask you to install an app such as AnyDesk so they can "fix" it from their side.
4. They may ask you to log in to your bank while they watch your screen.
5. They often ask for gift cards, crypto or a wire transfer, sometimes saying it is a refund mistake.

If you already paid, gave access or gave a code

These are the same steps the tool shows after a check, in the same words.

1. Disconnect the device from the internet now (turn off Wi-Fi or unplug the cable) and end the remote session.
2. From a different, clean device, change passwords for email, banking, and other important accounts, and review which devices and sessions are signed in.
3. Have the affected device checked for unauthorized software before you use it for banking or other sensitive activity.
4. Contact your bank, card company, or payment provider right away, by phone or in their official app, using a number from your card or statement. Ask whether the payment can be stopped or disputed. That depends on the payment type and the timing, and an outcome can't be promised. Phone is usually the fastest first move. Going to a local branch (a later step) is the follow-up, not a replacement.

These steps are general guidance. They have not yet been reviewed by the organizations named, and agencies, deadlines and rules differ by country, so use your own government's official website to find the right office. We can't tell whether any step will help in your case.

This is general information, not legal, financial or investigative advice. We can't promise any money will come back.

Check your own message

Got something like this? Paste it into the tool. What you type stays in your browser and is never sent or saved.